Although there are many effective measures to treat signs and symptoms of CHF while you’re at home, there are also actions that should be avoided. Doing any of the following could make your condition worse:
Do not take any extra doses of any medication that you have not discussed first with your doctor as part of your emergency action plan.
Do not avoid taking your regular medicine in favor of taking unapproved medicines, alternative medicines, or home remedies.
Do not take any substance that may suppress your breathing. Things that can suppress your breathing and that should be avoided include:
Alcohol
Codeine or other cough suppressants
Prescription pain killers, especially morphine and its derivatives
Sedatives, sleeping pills, or other sleep aids
Do not engage in any exercise, even walking short distances, cooking, or cleaning. This will make your condition worse.
Do not travel anywhere that makes it more difficult for you to speak to your doctor or get to a hospital.